Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Today we are continuing our module on challenges facing the aviation sector and the purpose of the meeting today is to discuss updates on international aviation and, more particularly, the challenges facing the entire aviation sector and air travel.

On behalf of the committee I welcome to today's meeting Mr. Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, IATA. All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Witnesses attending remotely from outside the Leinster House campus should note that there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and, as such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness who is physically present. Witnesses participating in this committee session from a jurisdiction outside the State should also be mindful of their domestic law and how it may apply to the evidence they give.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement whereby they must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House or the Convention Centre Dublin or both, to participate in public meetings. Unfortunately, I will not be able to permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to the constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard I am asking members partaking via Teams that prior to making a contribution in the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus or the Convention Centre Dublin. Anyone watching the meeting online should note that Oireachtas Members and witnesses are accessing this meeting remotely. Only I, as Chairman, and the necessary staff for the running of the meeting are physically present in the committee room. Due to these unprecedented circumstances and the large number of people attending the committee meeting remotely, I appeal to everyone to bear with us should any technical difficulties arise.

Mr. Walsh may now make an opening statement. I thank him for taking time from his busy schedule to be with us. Aviation is critical to Ireland, as he is probably well aware, being one of our own. We are very keen, as a committee, to consider how we can achieve the reopening of the aviation sector as quickly as possible in a safe way.